Green light for anti lymphoma drug

All patients with late stage follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHLs) in England and Wales are now entitled to free treatment with rituximab (Mabthera) on the NHS.

The decision by the government's health advisers, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice), signals an end to the 'postcode lottery' that existed before for the treatment and will ensure that it is an option for patients who have previously been untreated.

ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW

NHL is a type of cancer which affect the lymphatic system. Follicular lymphoma, the most common type of NHL, targets the B cells which help the body to fight infection. The late stages three and four of the cancer affect both sides of the diaphragm and then the whole body respectively.

Used in combination with chemotherapy, Mabthera is not a cure for the disease but aims to achieve remission during relapse and to alleviate symptoms.

MOST POPULAR

Announcing the decision to extend the use of the drug, Dr Gillian Leng, implementation systems director and executive lead for the appraisal, said: "In 2002 Nice issued guidance recommending the use of rituximab as last-line treatment of stage three or four follicular lymphoma.

"Today's guidance extends the use of this drug to cover first-line treatment, improves the options available to people with this form of cancer and sets clear standards for the NHS in England and Wales on how it should be used."

According to Cancer Research every year there are nearly 9,500 cases of NHL diagnosed in the UK, leading to more than 4,400 deaths annually.

The materials in this web site are in no way intended to replace the professional medical care, advice, diagnosis or treatment of a doctor. The web site does not have answers to all problems. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you notice medical symptoms or feel ill, you should consult your doctor - for further information see our Terms and conditions.